KUCHING: The MATTA Fair Sarawak 2026 launched at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today (March 28), reaffirming the state’s commitment to strengthening tourism as a key driver of economic growth and global engagement.
Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan officiated the launching and described tourism as more than an economic activity.
He said it also plays an important role in driving inclusive growth, creating jobs and strengthening cultural diplomacy.
“Sarawak continues to position itself as a competitive, sustainable and high-value destination under its Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030,” he said.
“I’d like to congratulate Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) for expanding beyond conventional travel segments, particularly through sports tourism such as pickleball, which he said reflects a forward-looking approach in diversifying tourism offerings,” he added.
Meanwhile, MATTA president Nigel Wong and Sarawak Chapter chairman Oscar Choo were acknowledged for their leadership in driving the association’s growth and strengthening industry collaboration.
This year’s fair features a record 138 booths, offering a wide range of domestic and international travel packages aimed at stimulating demand and supporting local industry players.
The previous edition recorded over 13,000 visitors and achieved sales exceeding RM10.8 million within two days.
Visitors can also look forward to attractive promotions and giveaways, including flight tickets sponsored by Malaysia Aviation Group as part of the Buyers’ Contest, as well as hotel and resort vouchers from various partners.
Snowdan stressed the importance of partnerships between the public and private sectors, noting that such collaboration is essential to achieving sustainable and long-term success in tourism development.
“The ministry remains committed to supporting industry initiatives like MATTA Fair in creating an enabling ecosystem that encourages innovation and delivers tangible benefits to the people and the economy,” he added.
